Managing electricity costs in Ontario has become increasingly challenging as energy demands rise and bills fluctuate with seasonal usage patterns. Fortunately, the Ontario government, along with energy providers and the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), has established comprehensive programs designed to help residents reduce their energy expenses through financial assistance, rebates, and free upgrades.
This guide explores every major assistance program available to Ontario residents in 2025, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and how to maximize your benefits. Whether you're facing financial hardship or simply looking to improve your home's energy efficiency, understanding these programs can lead to substantial savings.
Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP): Monthly Bill Relief
The Ontario Electricity Support Program represents one of the most valuable ongoing assistance options for low-income households. Unlike one-time rebates, OESP provides consistent monthly credits directly applied to your electricity bill, offering predictable relief that helps manage recurring expenses.
How OESP Works
OESP delivers automatic monthly credits based on your household size and annual after-tax income. Once approved, these credits appear directly on your electricity bill without requiring any additional action each month. The program recognizes that electricity is essential, and consistent support helps families maintain access to this critical service.
2025 Eligibility and Credit Amounts
Standard Monthly Credits (2025)
- Households qualify for credits ranging from $35 to $75 per month
- A family of four earning $65,000 annually would receive $40 monthly
- Annual savings can reach up to $900 for qualifying households
Enhanced Credits for Special Circumstances
Certain households qualify for higher monthly support:
- Electrically heated homes: Additional credits for households using electric heating systems
- Medical device dependency: Higher amounts for families relying on electricity-intensive medical equipment
- Indigenous households: Enhanced support for Indigenous customers or those living with Indigenous family members
Enhanced credits range from $52 to $113 per month, recognizing the additional electricity demands these situations create.
Income Thresholds
The March 2024 expansion increased income limits, with thresholds now accommodating households earning up to approximately $71,000 annually, depending on household size. This adjustment reflects rising costs of living and ensures more families can access support.
Applying for OESP
The application process has been streamlined for accessibility:
Required Information
- Current electricity bill with account number
- Names and birthdates of all household residents
- Social Insurance Numbers (or temporary tax numbers) for adults 18 and older
- Information must match exactly as it appears with the Canada Revenue Agency
Application Methods
- Online: Visit OntarioElectricitySupport.ca for the fastest processing
- By mail: Download and submit paper applications
- Through intake agencies: Local agencies provide in-person assistance
Applications typically process within four to six weeks, with credits appearing on bills within six to eight weeks after approval.
Important OESP Details
Reapplication Requirements
- Standard recipients must reapply every two years
- Seniors (65+) and disability pension recipients reapply every five years
- Reapplication required when circumstances change (moving, income changes, household size changes)
Special Considerations
- Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program recipients automatically qualify but must apply through their caseworker
- Condominium and apartment residents with individual meters can apply
- The program includes both residential utility customers and those billed by Unit Sub-Meter Providers
Current OESP recipients who may qualify for higher credits following the March 2024 expansion should contact the OESP Contact Centre at 1-855-831-8151 to discuss their situation before reapplying.
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP): Emergency Support
While OESP provides ongoing monthly support, LEAP addresses immediate financial crises when households fall behind on energy bills and face potential disconnection. This emergency assistance program offers one-time grants to help qualifying families restore or maintain their electricity and natural gas service.
LEAP Grant Amounts
2025 Maximum Grants
- Standard electricity assistance: Up to $650 per household annually
- Electrically heated homes: Up to $780 per household annually
- Natural gas assistance: Up to $650 per household annually
The grant amount cannot exceed what you actually owe, so if your arrears total $400, you would receive $400 rather than the full maximum grant.
LEAP Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for LEAP emergency assistance, you must meet several criteria:
Financial Requirements
- Household income must fall below established thresholds based on family size
- Similar income limits to OESP, typically under $71,000 annually depending on household composition
Account Status
- Must be behind on electricity or natural gas bills (in arrears)
- Previously required disconnection threat or actual disconnection, but this requirement has been relaxed in many circumstances
- Cannot have received LEAP assistance within the past year (though this limit may be waived in exceptional circumstances)
Important Restriction: You cannot receive LEAP and OESP simultaneously. If you're currently enrolled in OESP, you're ineligible for LEAP emergency grants.
How to Apply for LEAP
Unlike OESP's direct online application, LEAP requires working through designated intake agencies. These community organizations assess eligibility and submit applications on behalf of households in need.
Application Process
- Contact an intake agency: Find your local agency through the Ontario Energy Board website or by calling 2-1-1
- Phone screening: Most agencies conduct initial screening by phone
- Documentation gathering: Prepare required documents
- Interview: Meet with agency representative (in-person, phone, or virtual)
- Submission: Agency submits application to LEAP on your behalf
Required Documentation
- Photo identification for all household members
- Current electricity and/or gas bills
- Proof of residence (lease agreement or mortgage documents)
- Proof of household income (pay stubs, tax returns, benefit statements)
- Social Insurance Numbers for adults
Processing Timeline
Applications typically process within several weeks. During this period, intake agencies can often coordinate with utilities to pause disconnection procedures while your application is under review, providing breathing room as you work toward resolving arrears.
LEAP and Low-Income Customer Protections
Qualifying for LEAP also provides access to special customer service rules that utilities must follow for low-income households:
- Waived security deposits
- Extended payment arrangement timelines
- More flexible arrears payment plans
- Additional disconnection protections
These protections remain in effect even after receiving LEAP assistance, helping prevent future financial crises.
Home Renovation Savings Program: Investment in Efficiency
Launched in January 2025, the Home Renovation Savings Program represents Ontario's largest energy efficiency investment, offering substantial rebates for home improvements that reduce long-term energy consumption. This program benefits homeowners across all income levels, though it particularly helps those who can invest upfront and recoup costs through rebates.
Program Overview and Eligibility
The Home Renovation Savings Program provides rebates covering up to 30% of eligible upgrade costs. Unlike previous programs limited to electrically heated homes, this initiative includes properties heated by natural gas, propane, and oil, making it accessible to virtually all Ontario homeowners.
Who Can Participate
- Homeowners (detached houses, semi-detached, townhomes)
- Condominium unit owners
- Properties heated by any fuel type
- Both primary residences and rental properties (with some restrictions)
The program officially extended through November 2026, giving homeowners additional time to plan and complete renovations.
Rebate Amounts and Eligible Upgrades
The program offers two distinct streams: assessment-based bundled upgrades and standalone improvements that don't require professional energy evaluations.
Major Rebates Available (2025)
Heating Systems
- Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pumps: Up to $7,500
- Ground Source Heat Pumps: Up to $12,000
- Heat Pump Water Heaters: $500
Building Envelope Improvements
- Insulation (attic, walls, foundation, floors): Up to $8,900
- Windows and doors: $100 per opening
- Air sealing: Up to $250
Renewable Energy and Smart Technology
- Rooftop solar panels and battery storage: Up to $10,000
- Smart thermostats: $75 (increased to $100 for limited promotional periods)
Popular Standalone Attic Insulation
One of the program's most popular features is the standalone attic insulation rebate offering up to $1,000 without requiring a home energy assessment. This streamlined option reduces barriers and allows homeowners to quickly improve one of the most impactful areas for heat loss.
Assessment-Based vs. Standalone Streams
Assessment-Based Stream
For homeowners pursuing comprehensive improvements, the assessment-based stream provides access to higher total rebates:
- Requires professional home energy assessment ($600 rebate available)
- Enables bundling multiple upgrades
- Maximum combined rebates can exceed $20,000 for comprehensive projects
- Energy advisor provides customized recommendations based on your home's specific needs
Standalone Stream
For targeted improvements, standalone rebates offer simplicity:
- No energy assessment required
- Available for specific upgrades (attic insulation, smart thermostats, heat pump water heaters)
- Faster application and approval process
- Lower administrative requirements
Many homeowners start with standalone improvements and later pursue the assessment-based stream for additional upgrades, gradually improving their home's efficiency over time.
Application and Implementation
How to Access Rebates
- Pre-register: Visit homerenovationsavings.ca to create an account
- Choose your stream: Decide between assessment-based bundled upgrades or standalone improvements
- Select contractors: Use program-approved contractors for guaranteed compliance
- Complete work: Ensure installations meet program requirements
- Submit documentation: Provide invoices and completion verification
- Receive rebate: Funds typically arrive within 6-8 weeks of approval
Important Timing Considerations
While the program extends through November 2026, terms allow for early termination. Previous rebate programs have ended suddenly when funding was exhausted, so acting sooner rather than later protects your access to these incentives.
Expected Savings Beyond Rebates
The rebates represent only part of the financial benefit. Energy-efficient upgrades generate ongoing savings through reduced consumption:
- Heat pump installations can cut heating costs by 30-50%
- Comprehensive insulation improvements reduce heating and cooling expenses by 20-40%
- Smart thermostats optimize usage patterns, saving an additional 8-12%
A family investing $15,000 in a cold climate heat pump receives a $4,500 rebate and may save $1,000-2,000 annually on heating costs, achieving payback within several years while enjoying improved comfort.
Energy Affordability Program (EAP): No-Cost Upgrades for Income-Qualified Households
While OESP provides bill credits and the Home Renovation Savings Program offers rebates, the Energy Affordability Program takes a different approach by providing completely free energy-efficiency upgrades to income-qualified households. This program removes all financial barriers, ensuring low-income families can access the benefits of energy efficiency without any upfront costs.
How EAP Differs from Other Programs
EAP stands out by covering 100% of upgrade costs, including materials, labor, and assessment. Qualifying households receive personalized improvements tailored to their specific needs, delivered through program-approved contractors at no charge.
Two Levels of Support
Comprehensive Support
Income-eligible households with higher energy needs qualify for comprehensive support:
Free Professional Assessment
- Trained energy professional visits your home
- Identifies specific opportunities for savings
- Recommends customized upgrades based on your home's characteristics
Major Free Upgrades May Include
- Energy-efficient refrigerators
- Window air conditioners
- Smart thermostats
- Comprehensive insulation improvements
- Draft proofing and air sealing
- Cold climate air source heat pumps (for electrically heated homes)
- LED lighting throughout the home
Comprehensive support can deliver annual savings of $100 to $750, depending on the upgrades installed and your home's initial condition.
Energy Saving Kits
Households qualifying for basic support receive free energy-saving kits shipped directly to their homes:
Kit Contents May Include
- LED light bulbs
- Faucet aerators to reduce hot water usage
- Power bars for managing standby power consumption
- Energy-efficient showerheads
- Clothesline or drying rack
- Energy-saving timers
- Weather stripping materials
While more modest than comprehensive support, these kits provide immediate tools to reduce consumption and costs without requiring installation visits.
EAP Eligibility Requirements
Income Thresholds (2025)
To qualify for EAP, your household must meet one of the following criteria:
Income-Based Eligibility
- Annual household income below established thresholds
- Limits vary by household size, similar to OESP
- Generally under approximately $70,000 annually depending on family composition
Program-Based Eligibility
Households receiving assistance from any of the following programs in the past 12 months automatically qualify:
- Ontario Works
- Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
- Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) or Affordable Housing
- Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP)
- Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP)
Additional Eligible Groups
- Indigenous peoples connected to the IESO-controlled grid
- First Nations communities (including on-reserve)
- Social and assisted housing residents
Applying for EAP
Application Process
- Check eligibility: Visit saveonenergy.ca/EAP or call 1-888-386-1185
- Complete application: Provide household information and income documentation
- Await contact: Program service provider reaches out within three business days
- Schedule assessment (if eligible for comprehensive support)
- Receive upgrades: Contractor completes work at no cost, or kit arrives by mail
Required Information
- Proof of residence and utility account information
- Household income documentation or proof of qualifying program enrollment
- Occupant information for household size verification
Applications process quickly, with energy-saving kits arriving within three to six weeks and comprehensive assessments scheduled based on contractor availability in your area.
EAP and Home Winterproofing Program Coordination
Enbridge Gas customers qualifying for EAP may also access the Home Winterproofing Program, which provides additional free upgrades specific to natural gas efficiency. The programs coordinate to avoid duplication while maximizing benefits, ensuring qualifying households receive comprehensive support across all energy sources.
Additional Ontario Energy Programs and Credits
Beyond the major assistance programs, Ontario offers several supplementary initiatives that provide additional savings opportunities for specific circumstances or consumption patterns.
Peak Perks Program
This voluntary program rewards homeowners with smart thermostats for reducing electricity consumption during peak demand periods on hot summer days.
How It Works
- Enroll your existing smart thermostat in the program
- Participate in up to 10 brief thermostat adjustments during summer peak periods
- Adjustments are time-limited and occur on weekdays when grid demand is highest
Incentives
- $75 upon enrollment
- $20 annually for each subsequent year of participation (starting 2025)
The program expands in 2025 to include electric water heating and EV charging optimization, offering additional opportunities for savings.
Ontario Electricity Rebate
All eligible residential customers, small businesses, and farms automatically receive the Ontario Electricity Rebate, which currently provides a 13.1% reduction on electricity bills. This rebate appears as a line item on your bill and requires no application—if you're eligible, you're already receiving it.
Tax Credits for Energy Costs
Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit
This refundable tax credit helps low-to-moderate income individuals and families with energy costs and property taxes:
- Up to $1,283 for the 2025 benefit year
- Up to $1,461 for eligible seniors
- Applied automatically when filing income taxes
- Catch-up credits available if filing late
Northern Ontario Energy Credit
Northern Ontario residents receive additional support:
- Up to $185 annually for individuals
- Up to $285 annually for families
- Recognizes higher energy costs in northern regions
- Automatic application through tax filing
First Nations Energy Programs
Ontario maintains specialized programs for First Nations communities:
First Nations Community Building Retrofit Program
- Up to $330,000 per community
- Supports energy efficiency in band-owned facilities
- Covers commercial and institutional buildings
Remote First Nations Energy-Efficiency Program
- Dedicated funding for remote communities
- Addresses unique challenges of off-grid or remote grid locations
- Supports community-led efficiency initiatives
Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) Program
A recent partnership between federal and provincial governments extends heat pump support to income-qualified households currently heating with oil.
Program Benefits
- Up to $15,000 in federal grants for heat pump installation
- Additional provincial contributions through co-delivery arrangement
- Targets households heating with expensive and emissions-intensive oil
- Average savings of over $1,300 annually
- Coordinated with EAP for eligible households
Eligibility and Application
Income-qualified homeowners heating with oil should visit the Save on Energy website to determine eligibility and begin the application process. This program significantly reduces or eliminates the cost barrier to switching from oil to efficient electric heat pumps.
Maximizing Your Benefits: Strategic Approaches
Understanding all available programs allows you to strategically combine benefits for maximum impact. Here's how to approach Ontario's energy assistance landscape based on your situation.
For Low-Income Households
Immediate Priority: OESP
If you qualify, start with OESP for ongoing monthly bill relief. The consistent credit provides predictable savings while you explore other options.
Emergency Situations: LEAP
If facing arrears and potential disconnection, contact a LEAP intake agency immediately. This emergency support addresses crisis situations while you establish longer-term solutions. Remember you cannot receive LEAP and OESP simultaneously, so choose based on your immediate needs.
Long-Term Efficiency: EAP
Apply for the Energy Affordability Program to receive free upgrades that reduce consumption. These improvements lower bills permanently, complementing OESP credits and preventing future financial stress.
Additional Support: Tax Credits
Ensure you file taxes annually to receive Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credits. These refundable credits provide additional relief and require no extra applications beyond your tax return.
For Moderate-Income Homeowners
Start with Standalone Rebates
Begin with Home Renovation Savings Program standalone improvements like attic insulation or smart thermostats. These require minimal investment and paperwork while providing immediate savings and rebates.
Consider Assessment-Based Comprehensive Upgrades
For homes needing significant improvements, invest in a professional energy assessment ($600 rebate available) to access higher rebate tiers. Bundle multiple upgrades to maximize rebate percentages and overall savings.
Optimize Consumption Patterns
Enroll in Peak Perks if you have a smart thermostat. The enrollment bonus and annual payments provide passive income for minimal participation, while helping stabilize Ontario's electricity grid.
For Rental Properties
Tenant Protections
Renters can access OESP, LEAP, and EAP despite not owning their homes. Ensure your utility account is in your name (or you're listed as primary account holder) to qualify for these programs.
Landlord Coordination
Landlords can pursue Home Renovation Savings rebates for efficiency improvements to rental properties. Energy-efficient rentals command higher rents and attract quality tenants while qualifying for substantial rebates. Tenants benefit through lower utility costs.
For Condominium Owners
Condominium unit owners can access most programs, though some restrictions apply:
OESP and LEAP: Fully available if you receive individual electricity bills Home Renovation Savings: Available for in-suite improvements you control EAP: Accessible for qualified households
Common-element improvements (building envelope, shared systems) require condominium corporation participation rather than individual applications.
Application Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Successfully navigating Ontario's energy assistance programs requires attention to detail and proper preparation. Here are essential tips for maximizing your chances of approval and avoiding delays.
Critical Documentation Practices
Exact Matching Required
Programs verify your information against Canada Revenue Agency records and utility databases. Information must match exactly:
- Names spelled identically as they appear with CRA
- Addresses formatted exactly as shown on official documents
- Birthdates entered precisely
- SIN numbers accurate without transposition errors
Even minor discrepancies (middle initials, apartment number formatting) can result in application rejection and processing delays.
Income Documentation
Acceptable Proof of Income
- Recent pay stubs
- Tax returns (previous year)
- Benefit statements (ODSP, OAS, CPP)
- Employment letters on company letterhead
- Self-employment records
Maintain current documentation for all adult household members. Applications missing complete income verification face delays or denial.
Timing Considerations
Apply Early
Many programs operate on first-come, first-served basis or have limited annual funding:
- LEAP funds can be depleted before year-end in high-demand areas
- Home Renovation Savings has flexibility for early termination
- Processing times extend during peak application periods
Submitting applications early in the year improves your chances of accessing available funding.
Program Coordination Pitfalls
OESP and LEAP Conflict
Remember you cannot receive both simultaneously. Choose based on immediate needs:
- OESP for ongoing monthly support
- LEAP for emergency arrears assistance
Once LEAP assistance resolves your crisis, apply for OESP to prevent future problems.
Reapplication Requirements
Don't Miss Renewal Deadlines
OESP recipients must reapply every 2-5 years depending on circumstances. Missing renewal deadlines means losing your monthly credit until you reapply and are reapproved, which can take 6-8 weeks.
Set calendar reminders well before your renewal date to ensure continuous coverage.
Fraud Prevention
Recognize Legitimate Outreach
Government energy programs never:
- Contact you unsolicited by phone or door-to-door
- Request payment for applications or services
- Promise immediate approval without documentation review
- Ask for banking information beyond what's required for rebate deposits
All legitimate programs provide information through official websites and publicized phone numbers. Report suspicious contacts to the Ontario Energy Board.
Looking Ahead: Program Evolution and Future Opportunities
Ontario's energy assistance landscape continues evolving as electricity demands grow and the province pursues grid modernization and emissions reduction goals. Understanding likely program directions helps you anticipate future opportunities.
Expected Expansions
Appliance Rebates
The November 2025 announcement confirmed upcoming rebates for energy-efficient appliances including refrigerators, freezers, and washing machines (up to $200). These rebates complement the Home Renovation Savings Program and will likely launch in phases throughout 2025.
EV Charging Integration
Peak Perks program expansion to include EV charging optimization signals growing support for electric vehicle adoption. Future programs may offer additional incentives for home charging equipment and off-peak charging behavior.
Long-Term Trends
Focus on Heat Pumps
Federal and provincial governments increasingly prioritize heat pump adoption as a path to reducing emissions and energy consumption. Expect continued or enhanced support for heat pump installations, particularly for homes currently using oil, propane, or electric baseboard heating.
Grid Stabilization Programs
As Ontario works to avoid building new generation capacity, demand-side management programs like Peak Perks will likely expand. Additional incentives for load shifting, battery storage, and smart consumption management may emerge.
Income Threshold Adjustments
The March 2024 OESP expansion demonstrates government responsiveness to rising living costs. Future adjustments to income thresholds for various programs may occur as economic conditions evolve, potentially extending eligibility to more middle-income households.
Taking Action on Energy Assistance
Ontario's comprehensive energy assistance programs provide substantial support across all income levels, from emergency crisis intervention through LEAP to long-term efficiency investments via the Home Renovation Savings Program. The key to maximizing these benefits lies in understanding which programs suit your circumstances and taking action to access available support.
For households facing immediate financial hardship, OESP provides essential ongoing relief while EAP eliminates barriers to efficiency improvements. Emergency situations warrant immediate LEAP applications through local intake agencies.
Homeowners seeking to invest in efficiency can leverage Home Renovation Savings rebates to offset upgrade costs while reducing long-term energy consumption. The combination of immediate rebates and ongoing savings makes efficiency investments increasingly attractive.
The most important step is taking action. Programs operate on limited budgets and time-sensitive funding cycles. Whether you're applying for monthly bill credits, emergency assistance, or efficiency rebates, starting the application process today ensures you don't miss opportunities that could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars annually.
Visit the official program websites, gather your documentation, and begin your applications. Ontario's energy assistance programs exist to help residents manage energy costs—taking advantage of them benefits both your household finances and the province's energy future.
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